Long gone are the days of door shakers and electromagnetic contacts on a homeowner’s doors and windows. Both of these security tactics were meant to keep out unwanted visitors, also known as burglars. The electromagnetic contact security system was extremely high tech for its day and age, which rang a bell if disturbed in any way.
Obviously, times have changed. Advanced technology in home security has decreased the cost of safeguarding your home, belongings and family. Average income families can now afford the security tools that were once only deemed affordable by celebrities and wealthy.
Online shopping has plummeted as of the last several years, and when packages are delivered, “porch pirates” could be lurking around any corner. Thieves can easily swipe your packages right off your front porch, especially when you are not at home. Protecting your home is important, but protecting your valuables is important, too.
But thanks to new technologies, home security is allowing us to view not only what’s happening INSIDE our homes, but also OUTSIDE. Here is an overview of options available to protect your home. Whether you are a do-it-yourselfer or prefer to have a professional installation.
Full-Service System
A full-service security system is typically installed by professionals. These can range from well-known security companies such as ADT or Brinks, or even cable and wireless providers like AT&T or Xfinity. The features include video surveillance, remote access, carbon monoxide detection, smoke detection and even medical alerts for people at home. These often include advanced controls such as lights, heating and cooling, garage doors and appliances. You can set up custom alerts as well, so you can be sure your kids arrived home safely, for example.
Of course, these types of home security systems come at a cost. You can expect a set-up fee, as well as monthly monitoring and maintenance fees. If you feel, however, that you are savvy enough to take on a self-installation, that too is an option.
Do-it-yourself
Many businesses have created technologies that include starter packs for self-installation of advanced security systems. You can often pick and choose your options, so you are only getting what you really want. Anything and everything from video monitoring, doorbell cameras, home automation and simple security alarms.
Cameras and Sensors
Installing a home security camera used to be a daunting task. Today, these cameras are small and wireless and don’t take much tech savviness to set up quickly. Many cameras can be integrated into other standard fixtures such as flood lights, garage lights, doorbells, etc. A motion sensor is active so that you immediately receive an alert to your smart phone if there is movement near the camera or fixture. Some devices will record the activity as well, so you can see exactly who or what is causing the motion.
Keyless Entry Security Systems
The locks on your doors have evolved too! Now, you can purchase a keyless entry system for your home that includes a programmed numeric pad or blue tooth cell phone activation. These gadgets, combined with technology, allow you to provide access to someone who needs access to your home without having to physically be home. You can give access to trusted people on a one time, or recurring basis, with time frames and even temporary codes. It’s pretty neat, and a very clever way to keep your home safe.
Home automation
Have you ever left lights on – or worse – left lights off while you are out of town or away? Deterrents such as television or radio noise, lights turning on and off – even programmed window coverings – can keep burglars away. Many DIY home automation systems are available and fairly easy to install. These advanced home systems allow you to have control from virtually anywhere in the world.
Insurance policies nowadays offer discounts on homeowners insurance if you are equipped with home monitoring. Check your policy, or ask your Michigan property insurance specialists, to see if your home security system will provide you a discount.
Old school tactics still work
There are still measures you should take to keep your home safe. Don’t announce on social media when you will be out of town, keep valuables in a safe or at least out of plain sight, lock all doors and windows. And let’s not forget Fido! Having a dog is a proven security system and of course, a best friend.
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